7. July 2011 by Michael McFarlane.

Recently I have fielded a few questions about adding solar to an existing home.  Can it be done to mine?  How expensive is it?  How big do I need to go, and what happens if I generate more power than I use?  These are all good questions, and need to be asked (and answered) before forging ahead.

We are not experts in solar technology, but have become familiar with many of the general nuances.  We have also done research into who does this work.  Discussing things with them, we have drawn a few general guidelines.

Going solar actually has multiple facets.  There are active and passive technologies.  Active would include such things as electricity generation, water heating, swimming pool heating and the like.  Passive encompasses dual pane windows, eve overhang, attic venting, etc.  Passive has been with us for ages, but needs to be reviewed when considering active technologies also. 

Would you believe you can now have PG&E pay YOU?  Yes, you can actually sell your surplus energy generated back to the utility companies.  For more on that check out the link below.

$read more: SFGate ð

Questions about YOUR best action? Contact us today for your free, no obligation consultation.

For ALL your real estate related needs and/or questions call ((530 315-2808) or visit us8 on line at EncoreRES.com or any of the links below. Please note: all visits to our sites are secure AND confidential. We do NOT track your activity!

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3. May 2011 by Michael McFarlane.

Let me preface this post by reminding everyone I am not a lawyer.  However, my business forces me to deal with legal issues on a regular basis.  In order to serve my clients, I must keep abreast of the legal issues involved.  My final advice is always “consult an attorney specializing in the field of your question”.

That said, one of the issues we have heard discussed lately is the attempt to limit liability, by contractors specifically.  Like so many things in the legal arena, there is a lot of gray area here.  What are the limits, and to what do they apply?  Are they fractional (a portion or multiple of the amount paid), or are they absolute (at set dollar amount)?

Our experience has been that damages as a direct result of intentional wrong-doing or negligent actions are not limit-able by contract.  Damages caused by or in the course of committing an illegal act are also excluded from limitation by contract, and may even be cause for legal action.  We also believe that one can not sign away one’s constitutional or legal rights.

To see some specific examples please read the Q&A below by Janet Portman. 

$ read Q&A by Janet Portman  ð

Questions about YOUR best action? Contact us today for your free, no obligation consultation.  And, as always, consult your legal advisor for legal advise.

For ALL your real estate related needs and/or questions call ((530 315-2808) or visit us8 on line at EncoreRES.com or any of the links below. Please note: all visits to our sites are secure AND confidential. We do NOT track your activity!

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26. March 2011 by Michael McFarlane.

We think that most would agree that the term generally means to use our resources more efficiently.  But that is where the paths seem to part.  Part of this is commercialism; the need to make money.  Part may be due to a lack of knowledge (who knows EVERY impact a given change will make?).

Most of us would agree that making our homes more energy efficient is a good thing, a green thing.  There is a negative here to watch for also, a cost (not just dollars) that must be considered.  Sealing your home totally from that outside would reduce that energy required the heat and cool it.  But what about the are quality? 

Many substances used in our homes are toxic.  If we are to live in our home (isn’t that the purpose?) we need to clean this toxic environment from our home.  If our home is sealed to the outside, the we must filter the air to remove contaminates.  Filtering and air circulation cost money and require the use of energy. 

And what do we do with the toxic substances we removed from that air?  Land fill, burning, and other methods of disposal have their costs, both in money and environmental issues. 

Another issue we think often overlooked is the impact in the production of the materials we use for these energy savings or going green procedures.  What toxic materials are used in the manufacturing processes?  How are those wastes handled.  What about the materials that are being replaced as one retrofits one’s home to be more green?

Whether you consider yourself a “tree hugger”, are trying to save money,  or are just interested in being more environmentally responsible we think ALL these questions must be considered.  It does little good to spend more than what is saved, either in dollars or (and?) environmental impact.

What it means for YOU?  We are all for going more green.  Not only is it the responsible thing to do, we believe it necessary for the survival of the earth (at least in conditions humanity can live in).  As with most things worthwhile, proper research is required to actually get your desired results.  We are in the process of putting together a list of vendors and resources for this very topic.  Call us today for more information. 530 315-2808

Questions about YOUR best action?  Contact us today for your free analysis.

For ALL your real estate related needs and/or questions call ((530 315-2808) or visit us8 on line at EncoreRES.com or any of the links below.  Please note: all visits to our sites are secure AND confidential.  We do NOT track your activity!

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11. February 2011 by Michael McFarlane.

Like so many things tax related, form 5695 may seem overly complicated to many.  We have located some helpful information and sources for those doing it themselves.  Even if your accountant does your taxes, you have to know what they need to get the most you are entitled to.

First of all, make sure you are filling out the right part of the form. 

What type of system did you install? If it’s one of the following, complete Part 1 for Non-business Energy Tax Credits.

• Biomass stoves

• Insulation

• HVAC systems

• Roofs

• Non-solar water heaters

• Windows, doors, skylights

• Storm windows and doors 

Max credit: 30% of the cost of the improvement, up to $1,500.

If you installed one of these souped-up systems, complete Part 2 for Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit.

• Geothermal heat pumps

• Residential wind turbines

• Solar energy systems

• Fuel cells  

Max credit: 30% of the cost, with no limit except for a kilowatt limit on fuel cells.

Like other major expenses, keep your receipts.  For these tax credits, you also need to separate the labor from the materials costs, as the labor is not deductible here.  Manufacturers’ certifications should be kept on file also.  You don’t need to send them in with your return however.

Coordinate with Form 1040 and other forms  Part 12 is pretty simple.  Just enter the total (line 11) on form 1040 line 52.  Part 2 gets a bit more tricky.  Other credits claimed on other form can affect the deduction here.

$ Source: HouseLogic.com ð

Read more at the link above.  As always, we can speak in general terns only.   We do hope that these guidelines help get you going in the right direction.  Every situation is different, and you should consult your tax advisor to answer your specific questions. 

For ALL your real estate related needs and/or questions call ((530 315-2808) or visit us8 on line at EncoreRES.com or any of the links below.  Please note: all visits to our sites are secure AND confidential.  We do NOT track your activity!

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                  Search the MLS                                     Discussions & News 

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30. December 2010 by Michael McFarlane.

Sure you bought your vacation home for your enjoyment.  Of course you would not want someone else there when you want to use it.  And maybe your usage is unpredictable during the season.  You can still make money from it!

What about off season?  If it is a summer home, cabin etc., do you ever use it during the winter?  With vehicles and road conditions nowadays most places are accessible during most of the year.  But who would want a summer cabin in the dead of winter?  How about someone that wants a romantic Christmas?  Or how about a skier, or snowmobiler?  And then there is Ice fishing!  I am sure you can come up with more.

Getting your interest?  OK, what’s next?  According to Christine Karpinski, director of HomeAway.com and a repeatedly published author, 9 inexpensive steps can get you that income.

1. Winterize your marketing
2. Consider off-season specials
3. Redecorate for warm and cozy
4. Plan for Snow
5. Consider adding a Hot tub, Sauna, or ventless Fireplace
6. Make your home baby- and toddler-friendly
8. Accept pets
9. Customize specials for repeat guests

Source:  RISMedia  ð

To read more or to get the details of each of the suggestions mentioned follow the source link above.

For ALL your real estate related needs and/or questions call (530 315-2808) or visit us on line at EncoreRES.com or any of the links below.  Please note: all visits to our sites are secure AND confidential.  We do NOT track your activity!

Subscribe to Listings Updates           Free Home Warranty

                  Search the MLS                                     Discussions & News 

 Home Rescue Group               Free Home Market Analysis  

             Yuba-Sutter Real Estate Today

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1. November 2010 by Michael McFarlane.

Are you looking to make your home a little more “green”?  Maybe some of those old appliances are nearing the end of their life?  Or how about just old fashioned saving money?  Right now California is sponsoring a rebate program for those that choose to upgrade their appliances to higher efficiency models.

According to the Sacramento Bee the program had $8.3 Million in funds remaining as of last Tuesday night.  However, an audit that removed things like duplicate applications has brought that total up to $11.8 Million available.  Have you claimed your share?

Rebates run from $50.00 for room air conditioners to $1,000 for central heat and air systems, including things like $300 to $750 for water heaters.  For more details click HERE.

To date (as of Tuesday evening) 191,502 Rebates have been applied for.  The leading appliance seems to be the washing machine with 75,734 so far.

Source: The Sacramento Bee.

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29. September 2010 by Michael McFarlane.

Energy efficiency is highly valued by most homeowners.  According to a recent national survey 89% of the respondents said that making their home energy efficient is personally important to them.

Key findings from the September 2010 national survey include:
* Less than one in three homeowners believe their homes are “very” energy efficient
* While the majority reported knowing “a lot” about how to make their homes energy efficient, they mistakenly identified “older windows” as the top energy-loss culprit
* 90% said it is important to have a professional energy auditor who is “certified by an independent national organization”

While upgrading to new dual pane windows is obvious and visible, it may also be expensive.  There are less costly repairs the homeowner can do themselves that can save considerable energy. 
* Sealing cracks around doors and windows.
* Sealing and insulating heating and air conditioning duct-work
* Cleaning heating and A/C filters regularly
* MORE FRUGAL TIPS

This morning RISMedia reported that “D.C.-based Clarus Research Group, a Qorvis company, conducted a market survey of 800 U.S. homeowners on behalf of RESNET, an industry leader in the energy efficiency marketplace. The sample was defined as adults over 21 years of age who currently own a home or plan to purchase one within the next year. The survey was conducted by Ron Faucheux, Ph.D., president of Clarus and a nationally recognized research and polling expert.

Key among other survey findings:
* 86% of homeowners would trust an energy audit performed by someone who was “certified by an independent national organization” over someone who was not
* 80% of those surveyed said that if they were in the market to buy a home, an energy audit conducted by an “unbiased professional” would be important to them.”

For your FREE list of qualified professionals to help with your home needs contact Yuba Sutter Homes and Loans today.  Email or call 530 315-2808 for more great ideas.

Other services: 

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22. July 2010 by Michael McFarlane.

No real news there, right?  Just look at your utility bills for the proof.  In this area it’s A/C in the summer and heating in the winter.  Of course, if you are fortunate enough to have a pool, then you have that cost year round also.

We have all heard the old standbys: turn your thermostat back, turn off lights; shorten pool pump run times; etc.  But one can only set the thermostat back so much!  How do you stay comfortable AND save?

If you are building a new home, or doing a major remodel, you are being presented with a perfect opportunity.  Not only will you save on utility bills, I believe you will greatly increase the selling price of your home when the time comes.  I also believe that as energy becomes more scarce and expensive, these energy saving features will become even more important in selling price and a buyer’s decision over which home to buy!  To read more about how to get the most from your investment click HERE.

Are you looking to buy a home?  Looking to save money on those utility bills from the start?  Read the article above to get some good pointers on things to look for, then click on over to Yuba Sutter Homes and Loans to begin your search.  To go directly to all listings currently on the MLS services click HERE.

OR

Give us a call at 530 315-2808 or send an email and we will do the research for you, FREE.  No cost, no obligation; FREE.  Of course, we would like to be your choice when it comes time to buy.  That’s why we are willing to EARN that trust, and we will offer you a FREE home warranty when that time comes.

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16. July 2010 by Michael McFarlane.

Nothing new there, right?  The method for getting the most for your money is a moving target, and home improvement is certainly no exception. 

For many years upgrading your kitchen and bathrooms was the way to add the most value to your home.  During the most recent new-home building boom, things like granite counter tops and tile floors became the expected norm rather than a high end upgrade. 

Then prices began to fall!  Now how do you make your home more appealing than the rest of the market?  For quite a while price seemed to be the foremost (maybe even seemed like the only) selling point.  There’s not much you can do when shaving every penny off the selling price is required to get the buyers to even look at your home.  If you wanted to remodel during this time the guiding factor seemed to be to do what made the home more desirable to YOU because YOU are the one that is going to be living in it for a white.

Now prices seem to have stabilized, maybe they aer even going up a bit.  OK.  Remodeling is again plausible.  But, what is going to pay off?  What are buyers willing to pay for?  What will make a perspective buyer prefer your home over the one down the block?  These are all good questions, and need to be answered before you spend that hard earned money.

While this varies by area, neighborhood, price point and other variables, some basic guidelines can be deduced by watching the market.  According to RISMedia (a major news source for Real Estate) some of the things that pay best are:

Tip 1: Remodel your kitchen
Tip 2: Add a Garage
Tip 3: Remodel your bathroom
Tip 4: Install the right flooring material
Tip 5: Install granite counter tops
Tip 6: Increase curb appeal
Tip 7: Add natural light
Tip 8: Open up the space
Tip 9: Apply a fresh coat of paint
Tip 10: Clean up clutter

To get more detail or read the complete article click HERE. 

While we can not guarantee that any remodel will pay off in increased selling prices, keeping an eye towards yur neighborhood and the type of things that seem to work there will usually be your best bet.  How do you know what is working in your neighborhood?  Ask around.  Ask your neighbors.  Ask at the home improvement stores.  What pleases you?  Do your plans fit the neighborhood?

You can also spend a lot of time digging through the lists of sold homes to see what sold for what price, then compare the amenities and upgrades, accounting for time sold, conditions of the sale … the list goes on and on. 

OR

You can ask your Realtor®.  At Yuba Sutter Homes And Loans we are happy to help you sort this information.  And we do it with no cost to you.  Why?  Because we believe that by helping you we help the neighborhood.  By helping the neighborhood we help our communities.  By helping … you get the idea.  Of course, when it comes time for you to buy, sell, or refinance (yes, that can still be done) we would like you to consider us as your professional assistant.  But we are willing to earn that trust rather than just wow you with big company names and expensive ads or empty promises.

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